Far Beyond the Stars.

In 1998, during Black History Month, Deep Space Nine aired what is one of the most creative stories in the franchise’s history. “Far Beyond the Stars” brought us the tale of a black SF writer struggling to make it in 1950s America. At the same time, the writers wove this period tale together with Sisko’s journey as the Emissary of the Prophets, making a standalone piece serve equally well as a part of the overall story of DS9. In this episode of The Ready Room we’re joined by Charlynn Schmiedt and Tristan Riddell to discuss “Far Beyond the Stars,” its multiple messages, how it works as straight SF, and we explore the future television careers of the staff of Incredible Tales.

In news we look at a new Bird-of-Prey replica from Diamond Select Toys, tell you how to get your Starfleet Academy class ring, and debate which piece of Star Trek technology we would most like to have. We also delve into the news that J.J. Abrams will be directing Star Wars Episode VII and what this could mean for Star Trek.

Second Chances.

What could possibly be better than Riker? Two Rikers, of course! Regardless of the scientifically questionable accident that created two copies of the nautical-bearded one, the discovery of a William Riker from eight years in the past set up a surprisingly deep story that challenged Troi’s faith in her decisions. In this episode of The Ready Room we’re joined by our Managing Editor Charlynn Schmiedt, Literary Treks host Matthew Rushing, and Riker-disciple Michael Fisher to discuss “Second Chances,” how the passage of time changes people and their paths, romanticising the past, and why nothing can stack up to Riker’s vibe.

In news we discuss possible Blu-ray plans for The Animated Series, a new book about the story of Filmation, Creation’s TNG reunion and grand slam, new toys from Diamond Select, and we share our thoughts on the surprising story found in the first issue of Countdown to Darkness.

Journey to Babel.

Ask any fan to name a quintessential episode of TOS, an episode whose story and visuals embody all that is Star Trek. Without a doubt “Journey to Babel” would be on almost everyone’s short list. D.C. Fontana’s diplomatic murder mystery has it all: Spock, Sarek, Amanda, space food, a shirtless Kirk, and not one but two—well, one and a half—Andorian fight scenes. In this episode of The Ready Room we are joined by our TOS Editor Drew Stewart and Managing Editor Charlynn Schmiedt to discuss “Journey to Babel,” the inner conflict faced by Spock, Andorian tempers, and the Vulcan fixation on finger play.

In news we cover the full slate of Enterprise Blu-ray extras, TrekWeb’s campaign to restore Star Trek V, a full-length movie release of “The Best of Both Worlds,” Star Trek sportsball logos, and a new Botany Bay print from Bye Bye Robot. Plus, we break down Qualcomm’s press release for their Star Trek Into Darkness iPhone app.

The Road to The Wrath of Khan.

While The Motion Picture did its job of resurrecting Star Trek on the big screen, it was the second outing of Kirk and crew that really propelled the franchise forward. Nicholas Meyer, a director who was not a Trekkie, somehow “got” the very core of Star Trek and put together once of the most amazing stories ever filmed. But the road from initial idea to final cut was a lot less straightforward than the flowing narrative might suggest. In this episode ofThe Ready Room we are joined by Star Trek historian Larry Nemecek and Sociology professor John Tenuto to explore the genesis of Star Trek II, the creative choices that led to the film we know, and a wealth of behind-the-scenes information that has never been shared anywhere before. Tenuto has researched more deeply into the Nicholas Meyer archives and the life of Ricardo Montalban than perhaps anyone else in the world. In the process he uncovered the minutiae of “Space Seed” and The Wrath Khan as well as connections that indicate that Khan is indeed the villain of Star Trek Into Darkness.

In news we cover new information about the Star Trek console game release date, William Shatner’s plans for a TNG documentary, three bonus features planned for the Enterprise Season One Blu-ray set, new images from Star Trek Into Darkness, J.J. Abrams making a terminally ill fan’s final dream come true, Benedict Cumberbatch and Chris Pine on the cover of EMPIRE, and some of the first details of this summer’s edition of the Star Trek Geek Tours. Plus, we mark the 20th anniversary of Deep Space Nine by remembering the day that “Emissary” premiered.